I am in the market for a C5 convertible. I have read some threads stating that there are some parts availability issues with pre-'01 Vette's. Could someone please list the problem parts and/or summarize the problem?

Should this scare me off from purchasing a pre-'01 model?

Thanks

 

Should it scare you off? No- but realize that there are limitations to parts availability and if you can accept that--fine.

Read the posts/stickies above the line on buying a C5 and the post for Newbies - - - it will greatly assist in your decisions. That said, IMO, newer is better and post 2001 should be a better choice long term.

Good luck.

 

i have had both a 99 an 03 vert. i prefer the newer as they chaged the seats and they have the ls6 intake.

 

The C5's are so cheap now , I don't think there is really any reason to take a chance with the older ones. Just pick from an 03 or 04 as there are plenty to choose from and don't worry about the parts availability.

 

How were the seats changed?

 

The two main parts that are not available new for the old models are the SWPS (steering wheel positioning sensor) and the EBCM ( electronic brake control modulator). Maybe some others but those are the ones that come to mind.

 

when the heck are they gonna produce some parts to remedy that situation ??

I mean c'mon they're landing rockets on COMETS fer chrissake..

There are plenty of early 5's out there to sell to. I bought my base '99 A4 Coupe on a whim..I did not have a clue about obsolete parts..my car has 200K+ but the steering works fine and I know my trac control is still functioning.

That being said my next C5 will likely be an unmolested later model low mile 6 speed convertible.

 

if there is no profit in manufacturing those parts, they won't, it's as simple as that.

 

Yes sad but true..here's my deal, I should have asked this long ago, but without acronyms and technical terms..what is going to happen ?? My brakes won't work ? trac control shot ?? no steering ? etc etc layman's terms please..at least the damn thing can't lock me in..

 

Good question.

 

This. If you buy a '00 and earlier, you may not have any problems with the hard to find parts for quite a while, but if you do, just be prepared to either live with it or pay a real premium for the parts if you can find them.

 

Nothing that will leave you dead on the side of the road. Things that you can do with out. ABS, Active Handling. Some of us drove most of or lives with out.

 

Here Is a Question....Is there any Word and When... Maybe the later Model C5's 2001-2004 Parts Will be Obsolete..???

 

What would One Consider critical parts to Have for later C5's

 

The later model C5 SWPS was used on some GM cars up to 2009 so it will be available for some time.

 

Good To Know...

 

Maybe a dumb question but I will ask it anyway. STWP, all Vettes or only on ones with active handling? Mike

 

C5 improvements made on the 2001 and up models…

2001

return to 28# injectors for all models.
Second Generation Active Handling
Nassau Blue discontinued
Alternator 'clutch' pulley added on A4 cars
New soundproofing + foam in all cars
Smaller keyfob
electrochromic dimming rearview and driver's mirrors
lighter AGM battery
Thickness + Material in vert change
Chrome exhaust tips for coupe + vert
85MM MAF with integral temp sensor (versus 74mm with separate plug for IAT)
LS1 cam profile changed to: .500/0.500, 198/208 on 115.5LSA (From: 0.472/0.479, 202/210 on 117)
All Corvettes now have the LS6 intake manifold
All Corvettes now have the LS6 engine block (windage passages in block), which includes a beefier oil pump.
LS1 changes result in new output of 350 HP @ 5200 RPM and 375 Ft Lbs of torque @ 4400 RPM (MN6)
Hardtop/FRC discontinued
Pup cats added to all models
Stronger synchros in all transmissions
Exhaust manifolds revised (5hp regained) - thin wall cast replacing SS manifolds
metal valvestem caps (late year)
Torque Tube changed from metal-matrix composite to aluminum alloy 6061, increased in dia from 55 to 63 mm.
Driveshaft couplings have also been upgraded on manual-equipped models for additional strength and durability
Introduction of the Z06, which has as differences:
hardtop body style
rear brake ducting
screened inlets on front fascia, without foglights
F1 supercar tires 265-17 front, 295-18 rear, on 17x9.5 and 18x10.5 (one inch wider, respectively
new LS6 top-end with new style head design (10.5:1 compression, 64cc chamber), LS6 cam (0.525/0.525, 204/211 on 116) - 385hp
M12 transmission with shorter gearing (1-2-3 analagous to MN6 with 3.90 rear diff
Titanium exhaust system
lightweight windshield
New, stronger clutch with redesigned master + slave cylinder
Stronger rear differential (shotpeened ring gear)
Red brake calipers (otherwise identical)
Trans overtemp warning light on DIC
6500 redline gauges with special checkering + Z06 font
redesigned PCV system to help combat oil burning
Red LS6 Fuel Rail Covers (FRC's)
FE4 Z06 suspension - uprated springs, bars (30mm/23.6mm), shocks (note front spring and rear bar same as Z51)

 

Correct me if I am wrong, but there are a few folks that are rebuilding the EBCMs correct?

I've also heard there is limited availability of Clocksping Assemblies, correct?

Is there a way to convert to later model SWPS? There is one for sale on eBay by one of the chop-shop/dismantlers for $499.00 (used, tested good). OUCH! That's highway robbery.

 

The 2001-2004 EBCM's are rebuildable but not the earlier ones. As far as converting to the newer SWPS, I have not heard of any one doing this yet. But with enough money and time I guess anything is possible.